The Forum, running from October 9 through 10, builds on the success of its inaugural edition in 2023, and focuses on advancing global connectivity amid growing geopolitical and economic challenges.
It brings together high-level representatives from governments, financial institutions, the private sector, and civil society to explore innovative strategies for scaling up Global Gateway investments in partner countries.
As he delivered his speech, Tshisekedi took the stage and reiterated the familiar narrative, accusing Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, a claim Rwanda denied repeatedly.
He called on Rwanda to give the order for the M23 troops, which he claimed were backed by Rwanda, to halt the escalation.
Tshisekedi also stated that his country has never been belligerent towards its neighbors, despite his repeated threats to invade Rwanda, bombard Kigali, and overthrow Rwanda’s leadership, threats that can be validated through multiple reports.
Following a post on X by Patrick Muyaya, which included excerpts from Tshisekedi’s speech, Minister Nduhungirehe reminded them of the truth, refuting the narrative and exposing the lies and distortions of fact.
In response, Nduhungirehe stated, “No, you are wrong on all counts. The only person who can stop this escalation is President Tshisekedi, and HE ALONE.”
Amb. Nduhungirehe went on to address Tshisekedi’s claims, alluding to specifically his public threats of war.
“He can do so by ceasing to display his belligerent attitude, particularly his public threats of invading Rwanda or bombing Kigali, not to mention his disgraceful insults against President Kagame,” Amb. Nduhungirehe asserted, highlighting Tshisekedi’s repeated threats.
The Minister continued, accusing the DRC president of supporting the FDLR genocidaires, a militia responsible for Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
“He can do so by stopping his support for the FDLR genocidaires, expelling them from his army, and neutralizing them, as required by the Washington Peace Agreement,” Amb. Nduhungirehe declared.
He also criticized the DRC government for its involvement with armed militias, specifically the Wazalendo militia, and the daily bombings by Tshisekedi’s fighter jets and attack drones in eastern DRC, including on Banyamulenge villages and densely populated areas.
The Minister further accused Tshisekedi of deploying foreign mercenaries and violating international agreements.
“He can do so by stopping the use of Burundian soldiers and mercenaries, formerly Romanians and now Colombians,” Amb. Nduhungirehe added, pointing out violations of a 1977 OAU resolution and a 1989 UN Convention.
Amb. Nduhungirehe also condemned Tshisekedi’s use of international platforms for political maneuvering.
“Finally, he can do so by stopping this ridiculous political farce of exploiting a platform at an important economic partnership summit to launch accusations and lies,” the Minister concluded.
Rwanda-DRC diplomatic relations have faced setbacks since the resurgence of the M23 rebel group in 2021, which highlighted the rights of marginalized Congolese Tutsi and Banyamulenge communities.
Since then, the DRC has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23, an accusation Kigali vehemently denies, urging the DRC to address its own issues rather than blame its neighbor.
Various mediation efforts have been underway, including a peace deal signed in Washington and an M23-DRC dialogue facilitated by Qatar.
However, the DRC has been criticized for shifting its stance and lacking the willingness to implement resolutions, hindering lasting peace in eastern DRC.
This includes the recent last-minute blockage of the Regional Economic Integration Framework, which was not signed at Tshisekedi’s request in Washington.
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